Pickpocket Thefts at Toronto Premium Outlets

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has made two arrests but continues to investigate a series of pickpocket thefts at the Toronto Premium Outlets.

The thefts are being committed by organized groups targeting unsuspecting shoppers. This year alone, the HRPS has received reports of 45 thefts at the outdoor mall in Halton Hills. A large number of these incidents are distraction (pickpocket) style thefts. The most common item targeted is cell phones. Since last November (2025) more than 70 cell phones have been reported stolen from unsuspecting shoppers at the mall.  Other targeted items include bags and wallets.

Arrests Made

On March 22, 2026, at approximately 4:55 p.m., police received a report of two suspects stealing a cell phone from a shopper. Officers quickly attended, located, and arrested both suspects.

A 35-year-old man from Toronto has been charged with Theft Under $5,000 and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000. A 33-year-old woman from Montreal was also arrested and charged with Theft Under $5,000.

Suspects to Identify

In an effort to identify additional suspects and raise public awareness about how these thefts occur, police have released security video of a recent incident.

On April 11, 2026, at approximately 3:50 p.m., a victim had her cell phone stolen from her jacket pocket by a male suspect while shopping inside a clothing store (see attached video here… https://bit.ly/4mOcwlf ).

Three unidentified suspects are observed entering the store together, following closely behind two female shoppers. The suspects appear to browse clothing racks while watching the victim’s movements. A male suspect selects a pair of track pants, approaches the victim, and reaches into her jacket pocket with his right hand. After taking the phone, he uses the pants to conceal it as he walks away. The suspect then discards the pants and exits the store.

A second male suspect is seen using clothing from a rack to position himself between the two women, obstructing the view of the theft.

A third female suspect is believed to have acted as a lookout.

No arrests have been made in relation to this incident. Photos of the suspects have been attached to this media release.

These types of thefts are common and often involve two or more suspects working together. Suspects typically watch for individuals using their cell phones while shopping. Once a target is identified, they follow the victim and create an opportunity to make contact - often by bumping or brushing against them - while simultaneously accessing pockets to remove a phone or wallet.

The stolen item is often quickly passed to another suspect. As demonstrated in the video, these thefts can occur in a matter of seconds.

Safety Tips

The Halton Regional Police Service and Toronto Premium Outlets are working in partnership to address these thefts and enhance safety for shoppers. The HRPS continues to actively investigate and identify the suspect(s) responsible and remains committed to keeping the public informed and up to date with preventative tips to enhance prevention of similar occurrences.

• Secure your phone in a fastened interior pocket or bag when not in use
• Maintain a firm grip on your phone in crowded areas
• Never leave your phone unattended
• Stay aware of your surroundings, including individuals who may be watching or following you
• Keep your phone out of sight and only use it when necessary

Report any theft or suspicious activity immediately by calling 9-1-1 or the HRPS non-emergency line at 905-825-4777.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers:
“See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

Media Inquiries:
Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations
Phone: 905-825-4899
Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca